South Essex has long proven an inspiration for singers and songwriters, from Depeche Mode to Dr Feelgood, but how many songs can you name that feature places like Southend and Basildon?

Here are five songs in which they do:

Billericay Dickie – Ian Dury and the Blockheads

“Good evening, I'm from Essex

“In case you couldn't tell

“My given name is Dickie, I come from Billericay

“And I'm doing very well”

 

Africa - Madness

"Oh I've said goodbye to Holloway,

"Farewell Southend on Sea,

"The burning plains of Africa,

"Is where you will find me."

 

‘A13 Trunk Road To The Sea’ – Billy Bragg

"If you ever have to go to Shoeburyness,

"Take the A road, the okay road that's the best,

"Go motorin' on the A13,

"Well, if you're looking for a thrill that's new,

"Take in Fords, Dartford Tunnel and the river too,

"Go motorin' on the A13.

"It starts down in Wapping,

"There ain't no stopping,

"By-pass Barking and straight through Dagenham,

"Down to Grays Thurrock,

And rather near Basildon,

"Pitsea, Thundersley, Hadleigh, Leigh-On-Sea,

"Chalkwell, Prittlewell,

"Southend's the end."

 

Sweet Albion Blues - Frank Turner

"I needed some peace, somewhere to stand still,

"Through the Cotswold hills down to Portland Bill.

"And to charge up my batteries for next weekend,

"Where I'd be cruising through Cardiff and ending up in Southend."

 

Goodnight Kiss – Black Box Recorder

“From Severn bridge to Southend-on-Sea

“Turn the lights out before you leave, goodnight

“Goodbye

“Goodnight."

Can you think of any other times south Essex locations have been immortalised in song? Get in touch to let us know.